Hippocampe Beach Wheelchair Knowledge Base

Whether you are planning long walks in the countryside, a winter skiing trip or just a relaxing day out at the beach with your Hippocampe All-Terrain Beach Wheelchair, we want you to be happy with your choice. That's why we are always here to help answer any questions you may have about our fantastic products. Do let us know if we can help answer any queries you may have, but before you get in touch, why not have a look through some of the things we get asked most often?

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I see a Hippocampe and try it out?

You are welcome to visit us at Delichon and try all our products - make sure you ring and check that we will be there first and not out and about. We also attend various exhibitions across the UK and further afield. See our events page for details. When we have sufficient demand in an area we can also send one of our highly experienced staff to do home or school visits to demonstrate the Hippocampe.

How do I order a Hippocampe?

You can order your Hippocampe online using our webshop. Alternatively simply drop us an email or give us a ring and we will guide you through the process. We can accept payment by credit/debit card, cheque or bank transfer.

If I order my Hippocampe from you when will I get it?

We try to keep Medium Hippocampes and accessories in Blue in stock ready for delivery by next day courier. If we do not have the size or colour you require in stock we can normally get it to you within 2-3 weeks.

How do I know which size Hippocampe to order?

The basic seat measurements (width and depth) are the same for all sizes of Hippocampe. The only variable between the sizes is the distance from the back of the seat to the front of the foot well. The appropriate size will depend on the abiliity and comfort of the user to sit with their legs bent, and also tadditonal length needed to allow for growth. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you need help to decide.

What is the weight limit for a Hippocampe?

The Hippocampe user can be up to 130kg (approx 20 Stone).

My child uses special seating in their wheelchair; will they be suitable for a Hippocampe?

The Hippocampe can be used in conjunction with a vacuum insert for users with an asymmetric posture or who need extra support. The Hippocampe as supplied has an angle adjustable and height adjustable backrest which can be set and a range of accessories including a headrest, armrests, pelvic belt, chest harness, ventilated base cushion, vacuum bags can be added to meet your needs. You may also wish to consider the Delta All-Terrain Buggy where the canvas has been designed to offer more support.

Why doesn’t the Hippocampe have a swivel front wheel?

For getting out and about over rough terrain a fixed front wheel gives much better handling. It also means there are no bearings, making it simpler and more robust.

Does the footplate adjust?

No. The footplate is fixed. We can provide a mesh infill panel to fill in between the front of the seat and the back of the foot well to stop your feet getting stuck if your feet are likely to move or if they don’t yet reach the foot well.

How much does a Hippocampe cost?

Hippocampes start from £2225 including the push handle, tow rope, adjustable backrest and the travel bag. Prices can be found in the webshop.

Can I take my Hippocampe on holiday?

If you are flying, check with your airline. Most are happy to take it as long as it is packed in its travel bag and checked in as oversize luggage. If you have a flat floor shower at your holiday location you can use your Hippo as a shower chair whilst you are away. If you are holidaying by car the Hippo can be secured on a bike rack or on the roof if you are short of room in the vehicle.

Can I tow my Hippocampe behind a bicycle?

No, there is no facility for this.

Do I need beach wheels?

The super wide beach wheels are an optional extra to spread the load on soft surfaces. They replace the standard double tyre back wheels. They are more difficult for self propelling due to lack of grip and their smaller diameter. Whether you need the beach wheels will depend on the weight of the user, the strength and number of helpers and the surface to be negotiated.

What is the warranty on the Hippocampe?

Hippocampes are guaranteed for two years from delivery. The warranty does not cover tyres, inner tubes, damage to the protective outer tube coating or damage caused by misuse or neglect.

Do you offer a trade-in facility?

No, sorry at present we do not offer this facility.

I need some spare parts for my Hippocampe – what do I do?

Simply give us a ring or send us an email and we will do our best to help. Spare tyres and inner tubes are generally available from good cycle shops, but if you are struggling to find them then let us know.

No gimmicks, no pressure - just great advice! That's our promise to you. You are welcome to visit us (by appointment) for an assessment or contact one of our product specialists who will be happy to guide you through the process of choosing the correct size and specification.